On the topic of recycling plastics (see previous post), I recently discovered Preserve, a Boston-based company that recycles #5 plastics (polypropylene or “PP”) – which includes some yogurt containers, hummus tubs, ketchup bottles, caps, straws, … plastics that until now, have rarely been recycled.

Through its “Gimme5” program (drop off sites at Whole Foods and other spots, or a mail-in option), Preserve collects #5 plastics and recycles them into products such as toothbrushes, razors, and kitchenware. And they’ve found a solution that is efficient and economical, such that they can sell their products at reasonable prices and be profitable.